Check lists are used for a variety of things. One of them now is Toy Safety. It’s a big topic as there are so many toys out there. Here’s what it is.
The are so many toys and all of them have different good and bad sides. They also have some risks, eMaxHealth reports.
But there are also many consumer protection rights. So, law firms focus on such cases quite a lot. Many even offer free consultations.
Still, there are several questions parents might want to ask themselves when buying and maintaining toys. This means you lower the risks of incidents which is what truly matters. So, here’s eMaxHealth’s
Toy Safety Checklist
- Has the toy been recalled? Check this government operated website for accurate updates on the toy industry.
- Is the toy toxic? This website offers a wealth of information on how to determine whether or not a toy is toxic to your child.
- Check the toy for sharp edges, points, or splinters. Will it injure your child if it is stepped on?
- Is the toy sturdy? Many toys are made of brittle or flimsy plastic material that can crack or break apart.
- Ensure that all of your child’s toys are stored at their level. You will also want to anchor heavy furniture to the wall so that they cannot tip and fall on your child. Wall anchoring kits are available for purchase at major retailers.
- Before purchasing stuffed animals, ensure that the stuffing does not pose a choking hazard should the toy rip. Also, check to see if the nose or eyes could be pulled off. Squeakers inside toys, including your pet’s toys, can pose a choking hazard if torn. Is the stuffed toy washable?
- Avoid toy chests or any toy or storage container with hinges that could pinch tiny fingers. In many instances, container lids should be avoided for small children.
- Does the toy have magnets? Check to see if they can become dislodged or loosened so that they do not pose a choking hazard.
- Does the toy have small parts? If your child is under the age of 3, they should not be given a toy with small, removable pieces. For stuffed animals – use plushies which have sewed on eyes and features, not glued on.
- Does the toy pose a strangulation hazard? Toys should not have strings longer than 6 inches.
- Electric toys should only run on batteries for small children. Make sure your child cannot access the batteries. Battery compartments with screws may be the safest.
- Regularly check your child’s toys for wear and tear including chipped paint and loosened nuts and bolts. Toys need to be thrown away occasionally. Or repaired if you can do it or know someone who can.
- Is the toy a musical or talking toy? Parents should check to make sure the volume isn’t too loud for young, sensitive ears.
- Make sure the lenses of your children’s sunglasses do not pose a vision hazard. Broken sunglasses can also pose a choking hazard.
- Riding toys should not be tippy or have handles that are at eye level. Utilize child gates to block off stairs and unsafe surfaces.
